CHITRAKOOT

HYE, 

          Chitrakoot I'm sure most of you'll must be thinking ....."naam toh sunna hai". Well this place holds a significant importance in Ramayana,and that's why you'll have heared about it.It is a is a town and a nagar panchayat in Satna district in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is a town of religious, cultural, historical and archaeological importance.
                                                    This town is full of different places which are supposed to be having religious significance.

Places to visit in chitrakoot are:
Kamtanath mandir:Located at the top of the Kamadgiri hill.This temple is dedicated to the lord Kamtanth.It is believed that lot of demons used to reside around this region,so the villagers requested lord Rama for help while he was in this area during his exile,Then Lord Rama prayed to Lord Kamtanth for strength and killed all the demons. After darshan in temple one must do parikrama of 5.5 Km around the Kamadgiri hill. 

 Gupt Godavari: Gupt Godavari is a cavern located at a distance of 19 km south of Ram Ghat. As per the legend, the Godavari River emerging as a perennial stream from the rocks deep inside this cave, flows down to another cave below and then disappears. A massive rock is seen protruding out of the ceiling which is believed to be the remains of the Demon Mayank.This demon had the audacity of stealing Sita's clothes when she was bathing and hence was killed by Laxman. It is believed that during their exile, Lord Rama along with his brother Laxmana held a court in this cave. Tourists can find a beautifully carved sculpture of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva at the entrance of the cave.







Sphatik Shila:Sphatik Shila is a densely forested area on the banks of Mandakini River, situated few kilometres away from the Janaki Kund. Tourists can find a large boulder bearing impressions of Lord Rama's footprints. It is said that Lord Rama did shringar to his wife Sita here. Moreover, it is the same place where Sita was bitten by Jayant, disguised as a crow.According to a touching legend, Rama had plucked some wild flowers and was decorating Sita's hair with them. They were both seated on a rock on the banks of the river. Unhappy with this cameo of domestic bliss, Jayant, the mischievous son of one of the gods, turned himself into a crow, flew down and pecked Sita's feet. This enraged the vigilant Lakshman who fired an arrow at the intruding bird, and pierced one of its eyes. This is why crows, to this day, tilt their heads to examine anything! There is a pavilion that enshrines footprints, recalling these legendary events on the banks of the Mandakini river. 

Hanuman Dhara: This is about 4 Km. to the east of Ramghat at the beginning of the Vindhyas. A stream of cool and clear water originating inside the mountain falls on the idol of Hanuman Ji and loses itself in a kund below. It is a popular belief that Hanuman Ji came here to cool down the heat after burning Lanka.Hanuman Dhara provides the awe inspiring scenery of a cascade that falls from the nearby mountains. Though the uphill path is little bit tiresome, the pictorial beauty of the gleaming waterfall take away all your hardships and you will be enthralled by the lovely environ that surrounds you.

An ascend of around  500 steps would get you towards the spring. The temple is dedicated to Hanuman holds a deity which is regarded as one of a rare idol of the monkey god. The spring that falls on the deity gradually fills the nearby kund is indeed a delightful site to be remembered for a long. Apart from this, Hanuman Dhara gives a implausible view of the legendary town of Chitrakoot and so do not forget to pay a visit to this lovely hillock.

 This place hold more of religious importance.Samosas are really yummy over here and are a must try.Happy Reading!

Located at the top of the Kamadgiri hill, this temple is dedicated to Lord Kamta nath, who is the patron deity of the Chitrakoot region. As stated in the Hindu mythology - Ramayana, a number of demons resided in the nearby Dandaka forests, who created havoc and destruction amongst the local folks in Chitrakoot. The villagers approached Lord Rama for help, while he was in the area during his period of exile. Lord Rama then prayed to Lord Kamtanath for strength and was able to kill the demons and bring relief amongst the villagers. Another belief is that Lord Kamtanath is another incarnation of Lord Rama himself. The main idol of Lord Kamtanath is black in colour and is decorated with ornaments and flowers. Beside him a smaller idol of his consort, Goddess Kamadgiri is placed. It is widely believed that if one visits this temple, followed by walking a circle around the Kamadgiri hill (5.5 km), his sins will be cleansed and his wishes will be fulfilled.

-- Read more: http://www.ixigo.com/kamtanath-mandir-chitrakoot-india-ne-1700690

Located at the top of the Kamadgiri hill, this temple is dedicated to Lord Kamta nath, who is the patron deity of the Chitrakoot region. As stated in the Hindu mythology - Ramayana, a number of demons resided in the nearby Dandaka forests, who created havoc and destruction amongst the local folks in Chitrakoot. The villagers approached Lord Rama for help, while he was in the area during his period of exile. Lord Rama then prayed to Lord Kamtanath for strength and was able to kill the demons and bring relief amongst the villagers. Another belief is that Lord Kamtanath is another incarnation of Lord Rama himself. The main idol of Lord Kamtanath is black in colour and is decorated with ornaments and flowers. Beside him a smaller idol of his consort, Goddess Kamadgiri is placed. It is widely believed that if one visits this temple, followed by walking a circle around the Kamadgiri hill (5.5 km), his sins will be cleansed and his wishes will be fulfilled.
-- Read more: http://www.ixigo.com/kamtanath-mandir-chitrakoot-india-ne-1700690

Located at the top of the Kamadgiri hill, this temple is dedicated to Lord Kamta nath, who is the patron deity of the Chitrakoot region. As stated in the Hindu mythology - Ramayana, a number of demons resided in the nearby Dandaka forests, who created havoc and destruction amongst the local folks in Chitrakoot. The villagers approached Lord Rama for help, while he was in the area during his period of exile. Lord Rama then prayed to Lord Kamtanath for strength and was able to kill the demons and bring relief amongst the villagers. Another belief is that Lord Kamtanath is another incarnation of Lord Rama himself. The main idol of Lord Kamtanath is black in colour and is decorated with ornaments and flowers. Beside him a smaller idol of his consort, Goddess Kamadgiri is placed. It is widely believed that if one visits this temple, followed by walking a circle around the Kamadgiri hill (5.5 km), his sins will be cleansed and his wishes will be fulfilled.
-- Read more: http://www.ixigo.com/kamtanath-mandir-chitrakoot-india-ne-1700690

SANDAKHPU

HYE,

          Sandakhpu is a trekkers paradise. As weird as its name sounds it has beautiful scenic view.Four of the five highest peaks in the world,everest, Kanchendzonga, Lhotse and Makalu can be seen from its summit.From Sandakphu the best view of the mountain Kanchendzonga is possible, which is known as the sleeping Buddha or the sleeping Shiva.It is the highest peak in the state of West Bengal, India. 
                                 Sandakphu is resplendent with the ethereal beauty of magnolias, rhododendrons, primulas and other sub-alpine flowers. It also contains more than 600 varieties of orchids.The temperature swings from -20 C (including wind chill factor) in winter to +15C in summer. Sandakphu gets snowfall in late December to early February. Ideal place for adventurous travellers and the untouched beauty of the location makes it one of the most magnificent places on earth. 

    To reach Sandhakhpu one can either take the two ways available.You either take you're car or  opt for trekking.Well I would definitely opt for trekking.

                                    The trek along the Singalila Ridge to Sandakphu and Phalut is one of the most popular ones in the Eastern Himalayas due to the grand vistas of the Kanchenjunga range and the Everest range which can be seen from the ridge, and also for the seasonal wildflower blooms and birding. Treks begin at Manebhanjan which is 24 km (1 hour approx. by road) from Darjeeling.

                         There are various travel agents who will help you .While reaching sandhakhpu don't forget to indulge in the local delicacies.Usually the hotel managers also make arrangements for you're trekking experience

BUNDI

HEY,

         Bundi is a small town in Rajasthan.Its 35km from kota and has a interesting history.This town was mainly ruled by the Rao dynasty who were in close alliance with the Mughals.
The must visit places in Bundi are:

Taragarh Fort or 'Star Fort':It is one of the most interesting places in this town..Constructed in the 14th century, the Taragarh Fort is the major attraction in Bundi.Taragarh fort in Bundi is a glorious portrayal of Rajasthani architecture. It has a negligible influence of the mughal architecture.The water reservoir,Rani mahal and Bhim burg are major attractions of this place.The fort contains three tanks which never dry up. The technique with which they were built has been long since lost but the tanks survive as a testament to the advanced methods of construction and engineering in medieval India.

 Bundi Palace: It is situated near the Taragarh fort and has beautiful gardens.and is notable for its lavish traditional murals and frescoes. The Chitrashala of the palace is open to the general public.

Rudyard Kipling wrote that 'To give on paper any adequate idea of the Boondi-ki-Mahal is impossible

Dugari Fort: This fort is located 65 km from Bundi and is situated near the Kanak Sagar Lake.The fort is famous for its paintings which depict the various scenes of Ramayana and Krishna rasleela .The  beautiful lake is home to many  migratory birds especially during winters.

If you are near kota don't miss the famous lapsi a sweet dish and the famous Rajasthani delicacy dal batti churma

JHALAWAR

HEY,

          India is well known for its ancient history,the beautiful palaces and forts are a live proof of India's rich heritage.Jhalawar district in rajasthan is a perfect example of India's historic significance

                                Though this part of Rajasthan is perhaps least explored, a treasure of history of many centuries lies unexposed and unexplored. Jhalawar is home to formidable forts, wall paintings and rich wildlife.

Places to visit in Jhalawar are:
Jhalawar fort/Garh Palace:The Jhalawar Fort, also known as the Garh Palace is located in the centre of the town. The fort was built by Maharajah Rana Madan Singh in 1845 AD. The Zenana Khas or the Women’s Palace has frescoes on both mirror and walls, which are considered finest examples of the Hadoti School of Art. Presently, Jhalawar Fort is home to the Collectorate and other offices.If you go there don't miss the government museum right outside this palace which was established in 1915 A.D .

Bhawani Natyashala:An interesting building constructed in 1921 by Maharaja Bhawani Singh, near the Fort. This unique theatre was built for the performance of plays and other cultural events. It was a popular Parsi theatre in state times. It has been recently revives and gives a very good insight into the theatre -art. It is quite a unique structure and an architectural marvel. 
      Its uniqueness lies in the fact that its deep stage with its underground construction allows the horses, and even the chariots to appear on stage. Believed to be one of the eight such theatres in the world, in its heyday it was the venue of great plays ranging from Shakuntalam to Shakespeare's classics.

Gagron fort: It is an example of a hill and water fort.The foundation of this magnificent, impregnable renowned fort was laid in the 7^Th century and the fort was completed in the 14^th century. Outside of the fort is the Dargah of Sufi Saint Mittheshah, where a fair is held every year during the month of Moharram

 If you are in rajasthan then don't forget to indulge in the authentic rajasthani dishes which includes mawa kachori, dal batti churma ker sangari.

ORCHHA

HELLO,
               Historic places have their own magic and charisma .Whenever one visits some historic monument or a city,you feel you have gone back in time. So today I'm gonna tell you'll about a beautiful historic place an unexplored medieval destination Orchha
This town is full of life and has palaces, forts and temples displaying the rich, feudal and dreamy Indian history. Orchha is not as popular as some other famous tourist destinations.

 Orchha was founded in the 16th century by the Bundela Rajput chieftain, Rudra Pratap, who chose this stretch of land along the Betwa river as an ideal site for his capital.
The must see places in Orchha are

Ram Raja Temple:

The Ram Raja Temple is perhaps the most important though unusual of all the temples in Orchha. .The whole village reolves around this Temole.This is the only temple in the country where Rama is worshipped as a king that too in a palace. According to legends, once Lord Rama appeared in a dream to king Madhukar Shah and directed him to build a temple for him. The king followed the instructions given by Rama and brought his idol from Ayodhya, the birthplace of the lord. However, the construction of the temple was not complete when the idol arrived from Ayodhya. So it was kept in the palace for the time being. Later, the king remembered that in the dream Lord Rama had specifically mentioned that his idol could not be removed from the place where it has been originally kept. This led the king to abandon the construction of the temple and instead the palace where the idol was kept was converted into a temple. 

The Fort Complex:

Orchha's fort complex, approached by a multi-arched bridge, has three palaces set in an open quadrangle. The most spectacular of these are:

Raj Mahal: Situated to the right of the quadrangle, this palace was built in the 17th century by Madhukar Shah, the deeply religious predecessor of Bir Singh Ju Deo. The plain exteriors, crowned by chhatris, give way to interiors with exquisite murals, boldly colourful on a variety of religious themes. Get a good guide inside here to take you all over the complex, including locked rooms, for a tip

Jehangir Mahal: Built by Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo in the 17th century to commemorate the visit of Emperor Jehangir to Orchha. Its strong lines are counterbalanced by delicate chhatris and trellis work, the whole conveying an effect of extraordinary richness. 

Rai Parveen Mahal: Poetess and musician, Rai Parveen was the beautiful paramour of Raja Indramani and was sent to Delhi on the orders of the Emperor Akbar, who was captivated by her. She so impressed the Great Mughal with the purity of her love for Indramani that he sent her back to Orchha.

Phool Bagh :The beautifully laid garden in Orchha, the Phool Bagh bears a testimony to the highly polished aesthetic sagacity of the Bundelas, who were the rulers and leaders of this small place in Madhya Pradesh. The Phool Bagh in Orchha served as a summer retreat by the kings of Orchha.
                                            The Phool Bagh were built as a memorial for Dinman Hardaul, the prince of Orchha, who died a martyr, to prove his innocence to his big brother.

As Orchha is near Gwalior ,you must try the famous sweet  Morena Gazak and Bafla.They are famous delicacies of Gwalior. 
                                 Hope you'll enjoyed the post.Happy Reading!

TORANMAL

Olá people,

If you are looking for a short escape from you're busy life far away from meeting any known faces then Toranmal is the place for you.I mean how many of us would like to see the same old faces when we are off for a vacation.A rather undiscovered hill station toranmal offers all the solitude you need.  

Tucked away in the Satpuda Mountains at an altitude of 1461 m., Toranmal is one of the most peaceful places on earth.The ideal time to visit is Oct-Feb

Some place you must visit when you go there are:

Sita Khai:  Sita Khai, located 1.5 km away from Toranmal, is a beautiful valley and derives its name from Seedha Khai. The waterfall at this site is a prime attraction. This site is also popular among the visitors for its echo point.But all the foodies out there don't forget to carry some food as there are no shops to buy food if you feel hungry

Yashavant Lake:Yashavant Lake is a natural lake that sprawls over an area of 1.59 sq. km. This lake has been named after the former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Yashwant Rao Chavan. It is believed that Yashwant Rao Chavan travelled to Toranmal, on horseback. Tourists visiting the lake can indulge in activities like boating and fishing. The Protestant Church is another attraction located nearby this lake.

 Machhindranath Cave:Machindranath Cave is believed to be the meditating place of Sage Machindranath. Tourists visiting this naturally formed cave can also head towards the Machindranath Mandir and the Markendeya Rishi’s Seat. This place is beautiful yet undiscovered.  A must visit place

So pack you're bags and go with you're Friends to a place which will give you'll amazing memories.Let me know how do you'll find this blog.Happy reading!

 

      

Nashik Vineyards

Bonjour,

              'Vineyards' this word reminds you of the beautiful french vignobles,doesn't it?.But now we can get a similar experience in India in Nashik . There are now almost 50 wineries in and around Nashik, and excitingly for wine lovers, many Nashik vineyards now have tasting rooms that are open to the public.The vineyards fan out in all directions from Nashik though, so you'll need a car to reach them.But Hey, its still more easier and affordable than going to France right?

 Some of the well known vineyards are: 

Sula Vineyards: Sula Wines was the valley's first commercial winery. Sula Vineyards was awarded with a silver medal for its 2012 Sauvignon Blanc as the biggest wine maker in India.The vineyards also houses a resort to live amid the winery and a taste varieties of wines produced at the winery in a taste room.The tasting room offers a beautiful view of hills and the Gangapur Dam.The Sula Fest in Feb/March combines wine with music. Taste some of wines, and then purchase your favourite bottle  to take home or enjoy right there paired with a delicious cheese platter as you watch the sunset from the peaceful balcony.you can visit their site sulawines.com/

York Winery: The winery is located on a site with a natural slope.The Vineyard spreads over 6 acres of land and offers a breath taking view of the Gangapur Dam.One can taste the whole variety of their wines in their tasting room,which include Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc,Shiraz,Late harvest and many more you can visit their site on:http://www.yorkwinery.com

Chateau d'ori: It is the largest vineyard after Sula .This winery is an adaptation of the latest concept in winery designs in Bordeaux, France.Its 2007 Cabernet Merlot was voted best in India, so the winery is definitely worth visiting although it's elusive to reach.It has three artificial lakes for boating and other water sports, luxury farmhouse accommodations, and ambient tasting lounge.You can visit their site on:www.chateaudori.com

The other famous vineyards are Vintage wines/Reveilo , Mountain View,Valle de Vin .How Many of us knew Nashik has more then we know.I wish I can escape to this beautiful place.What about you'll.






 

DISCOVER INDIA

HELLO,  

              Few days back while reading some travel blogs I decided to write a blog on undiscovered places in India.I'm gonna post about diffrent places worth visiting in India.Hope you'll like it.Happy Reading!